Science… What is Science?

CONPTTWhat is this?

Use the slides to fill in the blanks on the note sheet

CONPTT

• Six characteristics that apply to scientific concepts:

Consistent• Several scientists can repeat an experiment

and get the same result. • No contradiction.

Observable• The results can be observed and explained

using the five senses. Tools may help extend the senses (ex.: telescope, infrared cameras, microscopes)

Natural• A natural cause must be used to explain why

or how the event happens. Supernatural causes fall outside the realm of science.

Predictability• The natural cause can be used to make

accurate predictions. • Predictions can be tested to determine if it is

true or false.

Testability• It must be testable through the process of

science. This uses controlled experimentation.

Tentativeness• Science does not have all the answers or

solutions.• Scientific theories can be changed and

corrected. Theories can even be proven wrong. Nothing is ever completely proven in science

ChupacabraIs it “scientific”?

• Read the article about the “chupacabra”.

• Write an explanation telling if you think it IS or IS NOT a scientific topic.

• Use at least 4 sentences and refer to CONPTT.

What is Science?• “Science” meets all six criteria• Limited to natural world- use scientific

processes• Offers explanations for events-subject to

revision(tentative)• Not able to answer all the questions in the

universe, nor solve all the problems

Emerging Science• “Emerging science” may not meet 1 or 2

criteria; It may lack technology or knowledge.

False Science• Pseudoscience-non science, sometimes

portrayed as a legitimate science.• Example-astrology.

– “pseudo” Greek term meaning False

Non-Science• Does not meet the criteria of CONPTT.• Topics may be very logical.• Example-philosophy, personal opinions,

ethics.

Look at the following 25 questions and determine if they can be answered scientifically or not.

Answer the questions on paper in a yes or no format.

#1 What causes earthquakes?

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#2 Can ghosts say “BOO”?

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#3 What makes fossils?

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#4 What makes food spoil?

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#5 What is love?

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#6 What causes day and night?

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#7 How do new species form?

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#8 What causes the earth’s seasons?

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#9 How many angels can dance on the head of a pin?

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#10 What makes people sick?

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#11 Does a soul leave the body of a person who dies?

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#12 What causes salt to form crystals?

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#13 Does crossing your fingers protect you from evil?

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# 14 What causes sunsets?

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#15 What causes eclipses?

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#16 What is sex? (gender)

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#17 Is music beautiful?

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#18 What causes the sky to be blue?

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#19 What causes things to fall?

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#20 Does breaking a mirror cause bad luck?

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